Expert: Michalene Peticca - 11/25/2007

Question
My father in law is 67 years old and cannot seem to remember anything anymore. He forgets what the doctor told him at appointments and all he has done is come home. If he is trying to think of something and cannot remember he hits his forehead with his hand as if that will jog it back into his brain. He also shuffles when he walks rather than lift his feet, he says he cant lift them but the Doctor cannot find anything wrong.  Does this sound like early signs of dementia?

Thanks
Chris

Answer
Hello Chris,

Thank you for writing.  I am sure this is a very frustrating time for your father-in-law and it is great that you are taking an interest to help him.

It does appear that something is making your father-in-law forget and have ambulatory difficulties; however, you will need to know what Type of Dementia, if any, is causing these changes with your father-in-law.  

That is, Dementia is an "umbrella" term...much like Cancer.  Many different types of Dementia exist:  Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Multi-Infarct, etc.   

To get the best work up and a possible answer, I would strongly suggest he make an appointment with a neurologist since this specialist will be able to further investigate his whole symptoms.  

I would also suggest you go along with him on the appointment or another family member/friend to listen and give input if needed.  

The neurologist probably will order routine brain scans and i would request a CBC  (Blood chemistry profile) to just check for his overall health.

Don't wait; if there is a simple solution, it would be best to have relief...if this is the beginning of a disease, then it would be best to start medication and/or therapy.

Best Regards!
Michalene Peticca, M.A.